Jumper Ducts & Transfer Grilles

January 11th, 2011

Modern HVAC (Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning) systems have helped to greatly increase the energy efficiency of homes. One component of these systems that’s typically installed with a central return system are jumper ducts or transfer grilles. Jumper ducts and transfer grilles allow proper air flow from one room to another, particularly when doors are closed. By allowing the passage of air between rooms this helps to balance temperatures and reduces pressures that build up and can cause door slamming.

Jumper ducts are short ducts routed through the ceiling and covered with grilles. The advantage of jumper ducts as opposed to transfer grilles is that by being located in the ceiling they are less likely to pass noise between rooms. Transfer grilles act in the same manner as jumper ducts but are located in the wall space, often in or above the door. While these are only a small component of a well designed HVAC system, they play an integral part in today’s modern home efficiency systems. Take a look around your home or the homes you may be shopping and you’ll likely notice these components installed.